Doctor's Notes on Pineal Tumor
Pineal tumors develop in the region of the pineal gland, midline structure located deep in the midbrain area, near many vital structures. Pineal tumors comprise about 1% of all brain tumors but account for 3% to 8% of the intracranial tumors in children. The three most common types of pineal region tumors are gliomas, germ cell tumors, and pineal cell tumors. At least 17 different types of tumors may occur in this region, and many are benign.
Symptoms of pineal tumors include headache, nausea and vomiting, seizures, memory disturbances, and visual changes. Pineal tumors can cause a build up of pressure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain (called hydrocephalus). Intracranial pressure caused by a pineal tumor may increase to life-threatening levels, demanding urgent treatment. Pineal tumors may also cause visual changes and symptoms may include inability to focus on objects, double vision, and impairment of eye movements.
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REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.